Out-of-school peer educators [PE] are resourceful in transmitting reproductive health information but
their retention remains a contentious issue. This study aimed to assess motivation and sustainability of
out-of-school PEs in disseminating reproductive health information among adolescents. A structured
questionnaire was used to interview 406 PEs in Mbeya region, Tanzania. Focus Group Discussions
[FGDs] were also conducted with the PEs and other relevant stakeholders. Most PEs had hopes for
future employment and allowances through continuous training. The fact that majority of PEs had
primary level education [89%] and were either peasants or self employed [92%] posed a serious
question as to whether voluntary work is for the less educated, peasants and self-employed. Sustenance
of PEs needs to be a continuous activity aimed at increasing the number of trained adolescents from
their own social and economic groups. Otherwise, provision of transport and compensation for time
spent should be considered (Afr J Reprod Health 2009; 13[3]:99-110).